Wmv3?

Hey, I have a question about a program called DivxtoDVD. When I try and convert a wmv file into the vob files by using this program, it tells me that I don't have a wmv3 codec...So where do I get this... My friend told me that the only way I could get this is to update my service pack for XP, because I have the first service pack...I told him that I don't really want to update...Is this true? That brings me to another question....Is it bad not to update the service packs.....

 

You don't need SP2 for the codec, you just need Windows Media Player 9 or greater to have it. If you already have WMP9 & are getting this error, go here:

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/format/codecdownload.aspx

and download the last set of codecs, the one called "Codecs Installation Package for Windows Media Video 9 VCM".

Or...get WMP10.

As far as SP2 goes, I think it's a big step forward in terms of security for the average PC user. You know, the type that gets a computer & immediately loads every P2P program out there, clicks 'yes' anytime a window pops up asking to install software, doesn't realize there's browsers other than IE, thinks 'spyware' is a James Bond clothing accessory, doesn't do Windows or Anti-virus updates...etc, etc.

If you already take precautions such as using an alternate browser (ie: Firefox) with anti-popup plug-ins, keep your Windows & Anti-virus updated, use a firewall (Sygate or Zone Alarm) and scan with a couple of good updated anti-spyware programs (Spybot & AdAware) say once a week...then you're good. In this case, you can hold off on installing SP2 until programs you use start to require it, which will happen eventually.

If you decide to update to SP2, I recommend saving your data & doing a clean install with an XP install CD with SP2 slipstreamed into it.

If you are going to use the 'windows update' route & upgrade online, make absolutely sure your computer is clean of any spyware & virii, then uninstall any A/V & firewall software you're running & go straight to the update site.

Most problems you see posted here about SP2 stem from not following the steps outlined on the update site, which includes what I said in the paragraph above.

 

Thanx...got the decoder from microsoft and I think I will wait untill software starts to need it...good thing I know how to make a boot disc with a service pack ...lol....Thank you again.